Healthy Aging Month: Living Better, Not Just Longer

By Dr. Sue Paul, Senior Director for Brain Health & Well-Being, Asbury Communities

September is Healthy Aging Month, and I think it’s the perfect time to pause and ask ourselves: What does it really mean to age well? (Hint: it’s not just about blowing out more birthday candles.)

Recently, I had the joy of sitting down with Colin Milner, founder and CEO of the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA). Colin is often called the architect of the active-aging movement, and with good reason; he’s advised organizations from the World Health Organization to Apple on what healthy aging looks like. Our conversation left me thinking deeply about how we, as communities and individuals, can support older adults in living better, not just longer.

Beyond Longevity

We talk a lot about “adding years to life,” but Colin reminded me that what’s often missing is “adding life to years.” Purpose, joy, and meaning are what make those extra years worth living. (So, ask yourself: What gives you a sense of meaning today?) At Asbury, we design programs with this in mind like Kinnections Brain Health, which focuses on helping residents stay mentally active, socially connected, and purpose-driven.

The Hidden Dimensions of Wellness

Sure…we all know exercise, nutrition, and healthcare are important. But Colin pointed out that socialization and spirituality are the two most overlooked dimensions of wellness. And here’s the thing: loneliness and isolation aren’t just sad they’re dangerous

to our health. Staying connected and nurturing inner peace matter more than most people realize. (Who’s your “go-to” person for a laugh or a deep conversation?) This is why Asbury Communities offers opportunities (from resident-led clubs to spiritual life groups) that keep people engaged and connected in ways that make a difference.

What Science is Telling Us

The research is exciting. Studies from the Alzheimer’s Association and the Lancet Commission show that lifestyle choices, like staying active, eating well, and engaging your brain, can help prevent or delay dementia. Colin also shared new findings showing that structured lifestyle programs improve cognition in older adults (McKnight’s Senior Living, 2024).

Engagement vs. “Staying Busy”

We’ve all heard the advice to “stay active.” But Colin put it beautifully, “engagement is more than going through the motions.” It’s about knowing why you’re doing something and feeling connected to it. (Think about it: does your calendar reflect things that fill you up, or just things that keep you busy?) Our well-being approach emphasizes meaningful engagement whether through lifelong learning, creative arts, or specialized programs like Kinnections that focus on the “why” as much as the “what.”

Looking Ahead

What will healthy aging look like in 10 years? Technology will play a bigger role…(think: virtual classes, health apps, digital communities). But Colin stressed that the heart of it won’t change because wellness will always be about caring for the whole person including mind, body, and spirit. That’s exactly the foundation we continue to build upon at Asbury, where innovation supports (but never replaces) the human connection.

Five Ways to Celebrate Healthy Aging Month

Here are five simple, powerful ways to honor Healthy Aging Month:

1. Call or visit someone you miss. Connection is medicine so reach out and brighten both your day and theirs.

2. Move with intention. Take a walk, stretch, or dance to your favorite song. (Your body will thank you later!)

3. Feed your brain. Read a new book, try a crossword, or learn a new skill. Challenge your mind in fresh ways. (Or, join a program like Kinnections Brain Health for structured brain engagement.)

4. Pause for peace. Whether through prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection, nurture your spirit.

5. Find your “why.” Choose one activity this month that brings joy or purpose and lean into it fully.

This Healthy Aging Month, I invite you to join me in reflecting: What’s one small step you can take today toward living better—not just longer? (Maybe it’s calling a friend, taking a walk, or simply pausing to breathe deeply.)

Remember…healthy aging isn’t about waiting for the future, it’s about the choices we make today.